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A well-designed classroom is more than desks, chairs, and whiteboards. Sound plays a critical role in how students hear, process information, and stay engaged. Poor acoustics can make it harder for children to focus, follow instructions, and learn effectively. For students with hearing difficulties, auditory processing disorders, or bilingual learning needs, the impact is even greater.
To address these challenges, the Ministry of Education (MoE) introduced the Designing Quality Learning Spaces (DQLS) – Acoustics standards in October 2024. These requirements ensure that new builds, modular classrooms, and refurbishments provide sound environments that support both students and teachers.
One of the most effective ways to meet DQLS standards is with sound reducing wall panels. Unlike some solutions that require permanent adhesives, dbsorb’s prefabricated panels are modular, easy to install, and removable. This flexibility makes them ideal for permanent classrooms, modular learning spaces, or temporary builds.
Why Classroom Acoustics Matter
Children process sound differently than adults. Their developing auditory systems require a higher signal-to-noise ratio to understand speech clearly. Adults may manage with +6 dB, but children need around +15 dB to follow instructions without strain.
Even though many New Zealand classrooms are carpeted, most schools still have large hard surfaces such as desks, chairs, whiteboards, and glass panels. These surfaces reflect sound, creating reverberation that can make speech harder to understand. Acoustic panels help control reflections, reduce background noise, and make classrooms more inclusive for all learners.
Do children really need better acoustics than adults?
Yes. Children’s auditory systems are still developing. Without proper acoustic treatment, they expend extra effort to process speech, which increases fatigue and reduces focus.
Can acoustic panels support modular or temporary classrooms?
Yes. dbsorb panels are modular and removable, making them perfect for the growing number of prefabricated or temporary classrooms in New Zealand and Australia. Unlike glued panels that can damage gib board when removed, dbsorb's solutions offer minimal surface impact and can be repositioned as needs change.
Do acoustic panels improve learning outcomes?
Yes. Proper acoustic treatment improves speech clarity, reduces background noise, and helps students stay focused. This supports better engagement, comprehension, and overall classroom performance.
Understanding DQLS Acoustic Requirements
The DQLS Acoustics standards apply to:
- New-build schools and classroom extensions
- Modular and prefabricated classrooms
- Refurbishments or major upgrades
- Temporary classrooms used for more than 28 days
Standards set target reverberation times and sound transmission criteria, ensuring that students can hear and teachers can communicate effectively. dbsorb panels help schools meet these requirements while maintaining flexible, adaptable interiors.
Acoustic Challenges in Modular Classrooms
Modular and prefabricated buildings are practical solutions for schools dealing with rapid roll growth, but they come with unique acoustic issues:
- Thinner walls amplify sound transmission
- Lightweight construction increases reverberation
- Noise from outside enters the space more easily
dbsorb’s acoustic panels address these challenges. They reduce reverberation, improve speech clarity, and maintain a flexible setup for evolving classroom needs.
How to Place Acoustic Panels
Panels are most commonly installed on walls, but that doesn’t need to be the default. Ceiling solutions like tiles, fins, and suspended baffles are ideal where wall space is limited. Hanging screen panels can both improve acoustics and visually divide open-plan classrooms. Wall panels can also be engraved or printed, creating a design feature that reflects the school’s identity while performing essential sound absorption.
Key placement strategies include:
- Walls opposite windows to absorb reflections
- Behind teaching areas to enhance speech clarity
- Between classrooms to reduce noise transfer
- In temporary or modular classrooms for flexible acoustic treatment
Why dbsorb Panels Are the Right Choice
dbsorb’s Education Collection is designed for architects, designers, and schools seeking both performance and aesthetics. Key advantages include:
- Modular and removable – perfect for temporary or changing learning environments
- Customisable – multiple colours and groove designs to integrate into classroom design
- Glue-free and VOC-free – healthier indoor air quality and minimal surface impact
- DQLS-compliant – helps schools meet Ministry of Education acoustic requirements
These panels are suitable for retrofits, new builds, and modular classrooms, offering flexibility without compromising acoustic performance.
The Long-Term Benefits
Investing in acoustic optimisation improves classroom environments:
- Students process information more easily and engage fully
- Teachers experience less vocal strain
- Overall learning outcomes improve
DQLS compliance isn’t just a regulatory requirement — it’s a pathway to better educational experiences. dbsorb’s panels make it simple to deliver functional, flexible, and visually integrated acoustic solutions.
Classroom acoustics directly impact learning, focus, and communication. By integrating dbsorb’s sound-reducing wall panels, architects, designers, and educators can create spaces that support every student’s learning potential. Flexible, removable, and visually appealing, dbsorb panels make it easier than ever to meet DQLS standards while turning acoustic treatment into an intentional design feature.
